From the fire's ashes came unity
Throughout history, wars have been fought in the name of religion, and the bloodshed continues to this day. However, a refreshing and heartening story of religious unity comes from the ashes of the recent Los Angeles wildfires.
Among the dozens of structures lost in the Eaton fire was the Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center, leaving its members without a place to console one another and worship. Upon learning of this, the First United Methodist Church of Pasadena opened its doors to the Jewish congregants. What makes this even more inspiring is that since 2017, the Methodist Church has shared its space with members of the local Islamic Center for their weekly prayer services.
Rev. Amy Atikin, pastor of the Methodist church, says, “We are trying to cultivate an ‘island of grace’ in the midst of differences that we are told should divide us.” Melissa Levy of the Jewish Center echoes the pastor’s sentiments, “I think that this has been such a great reminder that all faith communities have the same goal. It is to support and make ourselves better humans so that we can make the world just a little bit better together.”
Learn more about how these three faith communities came together and “walk the walk” in their spiritual practices in this article from The Guardian.
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/25/la-wildfires-methodist-m...
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Slipstream
What a beautiful story and right here in L.A. During these times where "us and them" is the rallying cry, this demonstration of "unity and love" is refreshing and heartwarming and gives us hope for better times. Thank you; your post has given me a smile and made my day brighter.
Evangel
When people follow their heart, or open it, the world changes one person at a time. Everyone benefits. Where there was fear and hostility, understanding and compassion show up. In stories like this, the best of humanity reveals itself, and we need more of them. Thanks for sharing. It warmed my heart in this bleak political climate.